In 2021 bassist/percussionist Roger Hall started a regular improvisation workshop at Ashburton Arts Centre. His early co-founders were Steve Day (percussionist) and Ric White (saxophone maestro, flutes & electronics). The workshop experimented in a number of different directions including dance, visuals and theatre. It is still active, still challenging. Two years ago Steve, Ric and Roger decided to form a regular working band, expanding ideas emulating from the larger workshop sessions. Steve already knew the pianist Sam Richards and the cellist Eliza Jacobs. Early on it was obvious the Occasional Quintet had a lot in common.Sam Richards is a far reaching pianist (check out his Wikipedia entry.) He’s broadcast on Radio 2 & 3 and recently played an 8 hour solo concert contrasting composition with Tao inspired improvisation techniques.

Eliza Jacobs was playing piano concertos from the age of fourteen. Her move to the cello signalled a desire to broaden her pallet; she now plays in ‘classical’ ensembles as well as having a strong commitment to improv and experimental music.

Steve Day, Ric White & Eliza Jacobs have other arts interests, Steve as a writer/poet, Ric & Eliza as visual artists. Steve’s previous Discus recording is: Day Evans Dale Ensemble, Green Money, Discus142CD.

The Occasional Quintet’s Recording Rites is a one hour spontaneous composition (with six entry points for the listener’s convenience). It draws on all of the above influences, it can’t be repeated. O5 thrives on ‘live’ concerts. They will be playing in November and February 2024/25 promoting Recording Rites – the music will be, by definition, something else, making it a unique occasion.”